A healthcare provider is providing discharge instructions to a client who is prescribed Enalapril. Which of the following adverse effects should the healthcare provider instruct the client to monitor?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A persistent dry cough is a common adverse effect of Enalapril, an ACE inhibitor. This cough is a result of increased bradykinin levels due to ACE inhibition. The client should be educated to monitor for a dry cough and notify the healthcare provider if it occurs, as it may indicate the need for a medication adjustment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Warfarin due to its antiplatelet effects. Patients on Warfarin should avoid NSAIDs and opt for alternative pain relief options to prevent potential complications such as increased bleeding risk.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed Verapamil is to avoid drinking grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can inhibit the metabolism of Verapamil, leading to increased blood levels of the medication. This can result in a higher risk of adverse effects, such as hypotension and bradycardia. Therefore, it is essential for the client to avoid grapefruit juice while taking Verapamil to prevent potential complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct laboratory value that the nurse should monitor for a client newly prescribed Losartan is serum potassium (option A). Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) commonly used to treat hypertension. One of the potential side effects of ARBs like Losartan is hyperkalemia, an increase in potassium levels in the blood. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial because if levels become too high, it can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias and other complications. By monitoring potassium levels, the nurse can detect any abnormalities early and prevent potential harm to the patient. Regarding the other options: - Serum sodium (option B) is not directly impacted by Losartan and is not routinely monitored in relation to this medication. - Serum calcium (option C) and serum magnesium (option D) are also not typically affected by Losartan therapy and do not require specific monitoring in this context. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind monitoring specific laboratory values with certain medications is essential for nurses to provide safe and effective care. This knowledge helps healthcare professionals anticipate and manage potential side effects, ensuring patient safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In teaching a client with a new prescription for Amiodarone, it is crucial to include instructions to avoid drinking grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can inhibit the metabolism of Amiodarone in the liver, leading to increased levels of the drug in the body. This can potentiate the side effects and increase the risk of toxicity associated with Amiodarone, such as cardiac arrhythmias and pulmonary toxicity. Option A, taking the medication with meals, is incorrect because Amiodarone is best absorbed on an empty stomach for optimal effectiveness. Option C, taking the medication at bedtime, is also incorrect as there is no specific timing requirement for Amiodarone administration. Option D, increasing intake of sodium-rich foods, is unrelated to the medication and can actually be harmful in conditions where sodium restriction is advised, such as heart failure. Educationally, it is important to highlight the specific drug-food interactions associated with Amiodarone to ensure medication efficacy and safety. This case underscores the significance of patient education in pharmacology to prevent drug interactions and adverse effects, ultimately optimizing therapeutic outcomes.